A Nebraska lawmaker who wants to increase the minimum school dropout age to 18 says his proposal seeks to protect the long-term interests of children who will likely earn less without a diploma. Lawmakers began debate Tuesday on a bill (LB996) that would require students to stay in school until they graduate, turn 18, or complete a separate educational program. Current state law allows students to drop out at 16 with a parent or guardian's written permission. Lexington Sen. John Wightman says letting students drop out at 16 may have been acceptable 50 years ago, but now it severely limits a student's job prospects. The U.S. Department of Education says 21 states require students to stay in school until they turn 18.